An open letter to my nephew:
From the moment I found out I was an aunt, I was ecstatic! I was already out and about shopping for you the next day! My heart was so happy and full of joy to be able to welcome you into this world! I was there when you learned how to kick your mom and make her sick or hungry. I was amazed to see you kick her belly and it felt incredible to feel you kick my hand. Spending countless hours with your mom and dad, I watched you grow more and more every day. When I got the news you were making your debut into this crazy world, I was checking my phone every 10 seconds waiting on pictures or text messages saying I was able to come and meet you! FINALLY!
From the moment I walked into the room and saw your absolute perfection, I wanted to cry tears of joy. My nephew had the perfect smile, eyes, and tiny little toes. From the first few minutes you were born, we knew you would be a little trouble maker. I mean you are a boy and my brothers child anyways! You wanted to cause problems by staying in the hospital a few extra days and learning how to regulate your temperature. The first time I held you, you opened your beautiful eyes and I wanted to tell you that no matter how hard life gets, I will always be right beside you. I came to the hospital every day until you were able to come home.Your first day home, you met the dogs. I’m pretty sure you developed your love of animals because our crazy curious dogs. You started noticing them when they came to your side as you cried. As you started growing more, you loved when they licked you as they walked by. You were insanely protected in our home by your grandparents, aunt, uncle, and dogs. When you met the cats, I knew it would be entertaining. You LOVED to grab their fur and tails and they did not appreciate that one bit.
Of all the times in the world, you started crawling when it was just me around. I was crying tears of joy that you were growing and choose to do this around me. Mom and dad were upset that you didn’t do it for them, but you did have an awesome aunt who got it all on video! You learned to make a mess and LOVED to eat everything. When you started walking, we knew we were in big trouble. You would climb everything and steal food. Due to how much you loved food, you always stole everyone’s food! This made your uncle mad, especially when you reached into his spaghetti with your slimy food covered hands.
You grew so fast and made me feel so loved the entire time. From waking me at 4 am to watch your favorite show while mom and dad slept, to running around naked outside for everyone to see, we could never stop laughing. You talk up a storm now and you call me aunt Issa. When you are feeling sad because you don’t live with us anymore, you love to call me and ask to hang out with your best friend. My goal to protect you and be your best friend is thriving. I would like to tell you that I know we don’t see each other much lately but I love you with all of my heart. I WILL keep you safe and happy as much as I can. I need you to remember that I promised to always look after you. I know times are tough but we can still keep smiling and growing, knowing that you have a huge family that will never stop trying to see you.
Love,
Aunt Lyssa
